HOUSTON — Awaiting my journey from Bush International to downtown, my driver texted to say, “Police have all the traffic stopped for a funeral. All Uber drivers are delayed.” When lastly he arrived, I stated, “I’m pretty sure that wasn’t a funeral. That was the Falcons.”

(They’d landed at Bush 15 minutes simply earlier than my aircraft did. They posed for footage and obtained a police escort. I sat on the curb and waited for Uber.)

If you’re into omens, be happy to make hay of that one: “Falcons arrive at Super Bowl, are mistaken for funeral.” I’m not into omens. I’m truly — and don’t maintain me to this, as a result of my moods might be fleeting — in high-quality spirits. Flight was on time. Uber experience was effective. Hotel had my reservation.

Speaking of which: I’m on the 22nd flooring of a slightly good place. (Way nicer than the place I stayed for the Final Four right here 10 months in the past.) I’ve a view of Minute Maid Park, which is the place tomorrow’s Opening Night will probably be staged. I even have a view of a Westin, however not the Westin the place Atlanta’s workforce is staying. That’s in Memorial City, which is west of downtown.

The climate’s good. Lots of individuals are strolling round. The NFL Experience is ongoing. (I noticed individuals in Broncos and Steelers and Texans regalia, however no Falcons stuff but.) Traffic’s not nice. (Houston visitors is a bit higher than ours, however solely a bit.) I’m right here and I’m unpacked, and it’s solely 25 hours till the very first occasion — and precisely one week till they play the sport.